Guido in the Sun on Sunday, October 11:

“Allies of the PM say he plans to sack Grayling before he finds an excuse to resign over Europe and flounce off to play a leading role in the referendum campaign, boosting his profile and leadership credentials.”

Sunday Times, October 18:

“Eurosceptics are growing concerned that aides are pressing Cameron to sack his critics instead. That could affect…Chris Grayling… seen as most implacably opposed to EU membership. One senior Conservative said: “There are rumours he plans an early reshuffle to purge the sceptics.”

Telegraph, October 19:

“…Mr Cameron is preparing to “purge” his Cabinet of eurosceptics including Chris Grayling, the Leader of the Commons, in a bid to ensure unity in the build-up to the referendum.”

Axing him would be a warning to anyone else thinking of getting out of line over the EU. Though Grayling isn’t the only sceptic Cabinet minister – requiring the others to campaign to remain would be brave, in Sir Humphrey’s parlance…